Israel-Gaza War on Verge of Ceasefire Deal as Biden’s Term Nears End
With days remaining in Joe Biden’s presidency, a breakthrough in the Israel-Gaza war appears imminent as negotiators convene in Qatar to finalize a ceasefire agreement. This potential deal, mediated by Qatar, is described as the closest both sides have come to halting hostilities since the conflict began in October 2023.
BBC quoted an anonymous Palestinian official, who stated that indirect talks between Israeli and Hamas delegations were held in the same building on Monday.
“The detailed technical discussions took considerable time,” the official noted, underscoring the complexity of the negotiations.
The proposed agreement outlines a phased process. Hamas is expected to release three hostages on the first day, prompting Israel to withdraw troops from populated areas. Over the following weeks, additional hostages would be freed, and displaced Palestinians in the south would be allowed to return north, albeit under strict conditions. Movement across key routes would be monitored by a Qatari-Egyptian team equipped with advanced security measures.
As part of the deal, Israel has agreed to release 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including long-term detainees, in exchange for 34 hostages held by Hamas. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar remarked, “Progress has been made, and the deal looks much better than previously.”
The process faces resistance from within Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, as ten right-wing members have opposed the truce. Meanwhile, US President Biden has expressed optimism, stating the agreement is “on the brink” of realization.
Negotiations for subsequent phases are set to begin 16 days into the ceasefire, with implementation likely extending beyond Biden’s presidency as President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn in on January 20.
